“Modern Mystery School”

“Modern Mystery School”

Author: My Cultura and iHeartPodcasts April 3, 2025 Duration: 23:55

Kailea guides Jessica through the intriguing world of the Modern Mystery School, founded by Gudni Gudnason, a descendant of the Norse god Thor?! As they delve into its claims of spiritual enlightenment, DNA activation, and esoteric teachings, they uncover the school's controversial journey from Iceland to the U.S., and its eventual rise on the international stage. The school’s rapid expansion was fueled by multi-level marketing tactics and accusations of running a pyramid scheme, leaving many followers in both financial and emotional turmoil. Gudni, a charismatic businessman turned spiritual guru, stands at the center of this complex story.

This is a story of ambition, belief, and the fine line between genuine spiritual guidance and exploitation. As Kailea and Jessica explore its depths, they uncover the powerful allure of self-proclaimed enlightenment and the potential dangers that come with placing trust in a figurehead with a grand vision.

Forgive Me For I Have Followed continues the exploration from Netflix’s hit Dancing for the Devil documentary series by delving deeper into the personal stories of those affected by Robert Shinn, Shekinah Church, and 7M Films. We will focus on the experiences of victims and their families, address urgent questions raised in the documentary, and gather insights from former members and dancers. Our goal is to uncover strategies for combating abuse and ensuring that controlling, cult-like communities are held accountable for their actions.

 

*The following is based on actual events.  Certain composite and representative materials and characters have been used for dramatic purposes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


The story of 7M Films and its connection to Shekinah Church became a viral sensation, but the deeper, human truths remain largely untold. Forgive Me For I Have Followed picks up where the headlines leave off, guided by two distinct voices: Jessica Acevedo, who executive produced the Netflix documentary that brought this story to light, and Kailea Gray, a marketing strategist who lived inside 7M Films as a former member. Together, they move beyond the surface shock to examine the precise mechanisms of influence, isolation, and control that define such groups. This podcast is built on intimate, often difficult conversations with other former members, weaving their personal narratives into a broader exploration of power, faith, and manipulation within modern digital culture. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of the psychological landscape, the chilling realities obscured by social media glamour, and the complex path of extricating oneself from a high-control system. It’s a meticulous and empathetic investigation into why people follow, how systems entrap, and what survival looks like long after leaving. Produced by My Cultura and iHeartPodcasts, each episode delves into the societal and cultural frameworks that allow such entities to thrive, making it a crucial listen for anyone seeking to understand the real people behind a viral true-crime phenomenon.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 34

Forgive Me For I Have Followed
Podcast Episodes
“Kevin Part 1” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:21
In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we catch up with Kevin "Konkrete" Davis to learn about his journey since leaving Shekinah Church and 7M Films. He shares how “Krumping” led him to the church, reflects on his chal…
"Derek" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:56
The director of the documentary series joins the show to discuss his experience in bringing the story of Shekinah Church and 7M to life. He explains why it was crucial to present the narrative from the perspective of for…
"Amanda" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:05
In this episode, former Shekinah Church member Amanda shares her personal journey, beginning with her current emotional state and the reasons for finally sharing her story. She recounts her connection with the church and…
"Dr. Gideon" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:17
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Quincee Gideon, a psychologist and therapist, about the factors that attract individuals to controlled communities and what drives them to seek escape. We examine Shekinah Church and 7M…
“Melanie W. Part 2” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:45
In this conclusion to our two-part interview, we continue our conversation with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult documentary. Melanie and her sister…
"Melanie W. Part 1" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:19
In this exclusive two-part interview, we speak with Melanie Wilking, a dancer and content creator featured in the documentary series Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult. Melanie and her sister Miranda, formerly the…
"Angela" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:23
In this episode, we chat with Angela Derrick, former wife of 7M dancer James “B-Dash” Derrick. Angela recounts their initial pairing and eventual marriage within a cult-like environment, sharing the moment she realized s…
Dancing For The Devil [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:52
In this episode of the Netflix podcast, You Can't Make This Up, host Rebecca Lavoie interviews Dancing With The Devil director Derek Doneen and executive producer Jessica Acevedo about the making of their documentary. Da…
“Leah” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:31
In this episode, Leah provides a unique perspective on the humble beginnings of Shekinah Church and reveals the profound impact it had on her family. She will also discuss how her relationship with her older brother, Dan…
"Aubrey" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:20
Aubrey shares his experiences with Shekinah Church and his role in creating content for 7M Films. He reflects on some of the most poignant and unusual moments he encountered at the church. Aubrey also discusses the churc…